31 October 2017
By Bryan Smyth
bryan@TheCork.ie
Arts News
A Cork-based artist, who has been described as ‘probably the best painter of his generation’, has been shortlisted for the most recognised prize in Irish contemporary art at Vue 2017 at the Royal Hibernian Academy gallery from November 2-5.
Charles Tyrrell is one of only four Irish artists to have made the shortlist for the €5,000 Savills Art Prize, which will be awarded to an artist who has exhibited in the last year and made a substantial contribution to the visual arts in Ireland.
Janet Mullarney, Samuel Walsh and John Gibbons have also been nominated for the coveted award, presented by RHA director Dr Patrick Murphy on the first day of the event.
Charles, who is a native of Trim, Co. Meath and now lives and works in the Beara Peninsula in Cork, is an abstract painter of critical acclaim who has exhibited widely both in Ireland and abroad.
He paints overlooking the Atlantic, far removed from urban centres, full of the normal inspirations of the contemporary art world.
He studied painting at the National College of Art and Design and often uses the media of aluminium, canvas and board.
He is also a member of Aosdana, a state body set up through the Arts Council to recognise outstanding contributions to the creative arts in Ireland.
“This is the third year the Savills Art Prize has been presented at Vue and we hope the award will become as important to Irish art as the Turner Prize is in the UK,” said Vue 2017 organiser Louis O’Sullivan.
“Savills is the perfect partner to present the Prize as most art is found in homes and businesses, and not just museums.
“Vue 2017 is a great opportunity for collectors and investors to experience some of the best contemporary art currently being created in Ireland, and to get some expert advice and guidance from leading galleries.”
Last year’s prize was awarded to one of the country’s most noted living artists, Patrick Graham, who has had significant influence on the Irish art scene and is credited by some as changing the face of Irish art in the 1980s with his introduction to neo-expressionism.
Opening hours are 6-8pm on Thursday, November 2, 11am-8pm on Friday, November 3, 11am-7pm on Saturday, November 4, and 12-6pm on Sunday, November 5.
See vueartfair.ie
